Vital Signs: Labor Market Looking Solid

The labor market is showing signs of health. The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits fell to a seasonally adjusted 359,000 last week, from an upwardly revised 364,000 the previous week. The average for the past four weeks — a less-volatile measure — dropped to 365,000 from a revised 368,500. Readings below 400,000 suggest layoffs are easing and hiring may be picking up.

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